Wildfire Science: NASA researchers deployed to Oregon to study fire-generated clouds during the state’s record 2.5 million-acre burn season, aiming to better understand how smoke and heat trigger pyro-cumulus storms. Forest Policy: The U.S. Forest Service moves to rescind the Roadless Rule, a major shift that could reshape protections for watersheds in California’s Sierra, including areas tied to the American, Rubicon and Yuba rivers. Water & Climate Extremes: The Colorado River’s biggest reservoirs hit record lows, underscoring how drought is tightening water supplies and raising stakes for basin management. Toxic Chemicals Oversight: EPA released a draft risk evaluation under TSCA for 1,1,2-trichloroethane, finding significant worker risk contributions while not finding unreasonable risk for consumers or the environment. Ocean Protection: Environmental groups sued to halt the first deep-sea mining sale in U.S. waters near American Samoa, challenging a finding that mining won’t harm protected species under the Endangered Species Act. Air Quality & Health Workforce: EPA announced $10.8 million for water-sector workforce training, targeting retirements and cybersecurity needs across drinking water, wastewater and stormwater utilities. Data Centers Backlash: Opposition to data centers is spreading, with more local moratoriums driven by concerns over water use, noise, pollution and energy demand. Borderlands Ecology: Texas Parks & Wildlife meeting protests targeted planned border barrier construction across state park land, including Big Bend Ranch State Park, with opponents warning of habitat and tourism impacts. Immigration Policy With Environmental Stakes: A federal judge revoked TPS for more than 5,000 Ethiopian immigrants, a ruling that could affect people tied to disaster- and conflict-impacted regions. Permitting Reform Push: Senate Majority Leader John Thune highlighted bipartisan momentum for energy permitting reform, aiming to shorten reviews and limit legal delays. PFAS/Clean Water: EPA appeals board action addressed a petition tied to a Manchester, New Hampshire NPDES permit involving PFAS-related concerns.